Los Angeles native Amanda Gorman, who became a national sensation after her acclaimed poetry reading at President Joe Biden’s inauguration, will be back in the spotlight Sunday as she reads another work at the Super Bowl.
Gorman, 22, will read a poem before the game honoring three “community heroes,” including Los Angeles educator Trimaine Davis, who will be recognized on the field and serve as honorary captains during the pre-game coin toss.
Davis is the retention coordinator of UCLA’s Vice-Provost’s Initiative for Pre-College Scholars. The partnership between UCLA and the Pasadena and Los Angeles school districts prepares historically underrepresented students in 10 high schools to become competitively eligible for admission to UCLA and other flagship universities.
Davis works with students at John Muir High School, Marshall Fundamental School and Pasadena High School.
The VIP Scholars program also encourages pursuit of graduate and professional education using a social justice framework and holistic approach.
During the pandemic, Davis, a former San Diego State basketball player, has made it a priority to ensure both his students and members of their households have devices and internet access to help bridge the digital divide.
Davis has secured hotspots, laptops and tablets for his students and hosted tech workshops for families to learn how to make use of the devices, according to the league.
“I’m really excited about this opportunity just to showcase that all three of us, myself, James and Suzie, share this common bond of service and stewardship,” Davis said.
“The fact that we’re able to highlight the importance of this, that it comes from everyday folk who are in the position to do this work to inspire others, I think is incredible, and I’m so honored to have that opportunity.”
With Davism two others will be honored: Suzie Dornier, the coronavirus intensive care unit nurse manager at Tampa General Hospital, and James Martin, a Marine Corps veteran from Pittsburgh who has supported veterans, high school athletes and local youth during the coronavirus pandemic, will be recognized for their “dedication and selfless commitment to helping others,” according to the league.
During a pre-game ceremony, Gorman will recite an original poem about the honorees “in recognition of their tremendous impact during an unprecedented year.”
“We are honored to recognize these three individuals who represent the best in all of us,” NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell said in a statement.
“During this incredibly challenging time in our lives, Trimaine, Suzie and James have exemplified the essence of leadership, each in their own way. We are grateful for their commitment and proud to share their stories and recognize them during this special moment on Super Bowl Sunday.”
Gorman has two books forthcoming, including her first children’s book, “Change Sings,” set to be published in September.
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